updated 04:45 pm EST, Tue March 6, 2012

Gear should be backwards-compatible with iPad 2

While accessory makers have prepared new products for the next-generation iPad, most or all of these should work with the iPad 2, CNET reports. The site says it has heard from three company representatives who all say they expect the new iPad to have only minor changes in thickness, even if they're not absolutely certain. "We've been told there will be some minor changes in the thickness, but we don't have any specifics," one representative states.

The claims are consistent with others indicating that the new iPad will be roughly 1mm thicker than the iPad 2. The only cases that should have problems, therefore, are those that are form-fitting without stretching. Many launch cases for the new iPad could be designed to accommodate ambiguous dimensions.

Apple is rumored to have designed a new official iPad case with a hard rear shell. If so it represents a reversal of philosophy, since for the iPad 2 the company produced the Smart Cover, which only protects the screen.

LOL

Well, that won't stop companies for charging the $40+ tax for an "official" iPad 3/iPad HD case or cover. I can't believe how expensive the iCrap accessories are these days... I'm still shopping for a good 1st gen inexpensive case to prop up my iPad; I guess I missed the boat.